November 23
"So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." -1 Peter 1:6-7 (NLT)
Trials of different kinds impact us daily and can cause confusion. Have you ever encountered a day or time when nothing seemed to go right? It can be one of those trying days when we lost our car keys, were then late for an appointment, and came home to find a phone call from the doctor saying our latest tests had not come out well. Or our trials can involve rejection from a former friend who felt our quiet prayer at the table was inappropriate in a public place. Peter mentions trials and suffering several times in his letter because all believers can face trials but especially when they let their light shine into the darkness. Peter is wise when he advises us that trials are actually part of the refining process that burns away impurities and prepares us to meet Christ. As gold is heated, impurities come to the top and can be removed. Likewise trials, struggles, rejection, and persecution refine and purify our faith. Through it all we can be remolded and become more useful to God instead of moaning and groaning and complaining, "Why me?" Facing our trails with more helpful responses includes choosing:
I) Commitment to Christ even when you are confronting grief, loss, or pain. It is important to share your grief or anger with God. This can save you from despair and hopelessness and bring peace.
(II) Courage to move forward and face whatever circumstances are challenging you because Jesus always walks with you as your Lord, Brother, and Protector. Therefore you don't need to fear. He will never leave or abandon you! His joy can be yours!
III) Confidence in God who loves you and will direct your steps for good. Jesus will always provide you love, mercy, compassion, and strength. Rejoice because Christ is bringing you a better future!
Prayer: Lord, Grant me your courage through all trials. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: Trials intimidate. God liberates!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Fall Renewal (Volume 3) Paperback – August 23, 2017 by Rev. Dr. Mary B. Johnson (Author)
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